Despite absorbing his first defeat of the season in last night’s loss to the Tigers, Chris Sale (5-1) was outstanding. In seven innings of work, he gave up just one run and five hits while striking out 10–and lowered his ERA to 1.97. Chris recorded his 13th career double-digit strikeout game and third of the season. His career mark is now tied for third in franchise history with Javier Vazquez. It was also his third career outing with at least 10 strikeouts and no walks.

Avi Begins the Road Back

With Sox trainer Herm Schneider watching, Avi Garcia celebrated his 23rd birthday yesterday by playing catch for the first time since his shoulder injury.

I was at our Camelback Ranch facility in Glendale today and had the opportunity to seeU.S. Olympic speed skater Eddy Alvarez (in top photo below), who signed with us earlier this week, take batting practice. Also there was Micker Adolfo Zapata (bottom photo), the Dominican outfielder who signed with the Sox a year ago when he was 16. Upon signing, Micker was the No. 2 ranked international prospect by MLB.com.

Oh, By the Way

How hot was it in the Phoenix area today? Here’s the answer–and it even got up to 112.

Ceremonial First Pitchers

Last night, former Northern Illinois star and current Chicago Bear Jordan Lynch did the honors. Tonight it’s actor and comedian Kevin Hart and tomorrow it’s Bear Rinehart, guitarist and lead vocalist of NEEDTOBREATHE. On Tuesday, Orlando “El Duque” Hernandez, one of the heroes of the 2005 Sox postseason, will throw out the first pitch and on Wednesday it’s actor/director Rob Reiner‘sturn.

Quote of the Day

According to what I've dug up @whitesox are 45-25-2 on Friday The 13th NOT SO UNLUCKY!

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